RUSSIA HOAX 2.0: NBC Cites Cooked Election Intel in Collusion Callback
newsbusters.org -- Thursday, August 14, 2025, 11:44:17 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations, Foreign Policy & International Relations, Presidential Campaigns
At long last, a legacy network newscast mentioned the post-2016 intelligence assessment on Russian election interference that is the subject of the explosive declassified document publication by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. Unfortunately, the mention was not in reference to these revelations, but in continued service of the now amply debunked Russian Collusion Hoax.
Watch as NBC Senior White House Correspondent Garrett Haake pauses his Trump-Putin summit preview in order to hearken back to the halcyon days of 2018, when collusion chatter was the order of the day:
GARRETT HAAKE: Presidents Trump and Putin have spoken several times by phone this year but haven't met in person since 2019. At a 2018 summit in Helsinki, Finland, the two met for more than two hours behind closed doors. President Trump, pressed about U.S. Intelligence agencies' assessment of Russian meddling in the 2016 election, criticized later for seeming to accept Putin's denials.
DONALD TRUMP: They said they think it's Russia. I have- President Putin- he just said it's not Russia. I will say this. I don't see any reason why it would be.
This makes the ongoing omission of the document drop all the more galling. They KNOW that Gabbard published those documents detailing the ways in which the intelligence was cooked ahead of the 2017 Intelligence Community Assessment. They know it and choose not to address or acknowledge it in any way, as if to maintain the old Russia Hoax alive.
For crying out loud, the latest drop showed Jim Clapper pressuring the head of the NSA into signing off on the cooked intel, saying "this is our story and we're stickin' to it". NONE of that was of interest to the (Obama) Regime Media.
But six years later, the media pounce on the first opportunity to relitigate the collusion hoax. To do so without so much as acknowledging the new information on the underlying intelligence assessment- information that crumbles the whole collusion narrative- is a gross insult to the public's intelligence.
Click "expand" to view the full transcript of the aforementioned report as aired on the NBC Nightly News on Thursday, August 14th, 2025:
Sign Our PetitionThe article presents a critical perspective on mainstream media's handling of the narrative surrounding Russian interference in the 2016 election and subsequent allegations of collusion. This issue has significant implications not only for contemporary political discourse but also for the broader landscape of media accountability and public trust. The term “collusion hoax” emerges from a particular political lexicon that seeks to undermine legitimate concerns regarding foreign interference in democratic processes. Understanding this context is essential as it highlights the ongoing struggle between fact-based journalism and the politicization of information.
Historically, the U.S. has grappled with Russian interference dating back to the Cold War, where disinformation campaigns were a hallmark of the Soviet strategy. The contemporary iteration of such tactics, particularly through social media and cyber warfare, poses a real threat to the integrity of democratic institutions. The 2016 election marked a watershed moment, revealing vulnerabilities in electoral processes and the potential for manipulation by external actors. The subsequent intelligence assessments confirmed these fears, leading to bipartisan concern about foreign meddling. Dismissing these assessments as a “hoax” not only undermines the gravity of these threats but also risks repeating the mistakes of history, where complacency allowed adversaries to exploit weaknesses.
The notion of “cooked intel” as mentioned in the article is particularly troubling. It raises questions about the integrity of intelligence and the degree to which political pressures can influence assessments. The pressure placed on intelligence officials to conform to a specific narrative presents a dangerous precedent, where the pursuit of political agendas may overshadow objective truth. The public deserves transparency and accountability, especially from agencies tasked with safeguarding democracy. Ignoring or downplaying these dynamics fosters a culture of mistrust, where citizens are left to navigate a landscape rife with misinformation and partisan posturing.
In examining the role of media, it is essential to recognize how selective reporting can shape narratives. The failure to address the new information and the implications it has for understanding the 2016 election reflects a broader trend in which sensationalism often overshadows substantive analysis. This selective reporting can serve to reinforce pre-existing biases rather than enlighten the public. A healthy democracy relies on an informed citizenry, and when media outlets neglect to provide comprehensive coverage of critical developments, they inadvertently contribute to a cycle of ignorance and division.
Moreover, the context of ongoing social struggles underscores the importance of vigilance against disinformation and the need for critical engagement with news sources. In an era where misinformation can spread rapidly, the responsibility falls on individuals to question narratives and seek out credible information. This call to action is particularly pertinent as communities continue to advocate for social justice, equity, and accountability in governance. The fight against systemic injustices requires not only awareness but also a commitment to truth-telling and transparency, as these principles are foundational to achieving meaningful change.
In summary, the article's framing of the Russian collusion narrative as a "hoax" serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding media discourse and political accountability. It is imperative for citizens to remain vigilant and critical, demanding more from their media and political leaders. Only through a collective commitment to truth and transparency can we hope to address the profound challenges facing our democratic institutions today.
The recent article discussing the media's ongoing fixation on the so-called "Russian collusion" narrative raises critical questions about the integrity of reporting and the political motivations that underpin it. The reference to NBC's coverage illustrates a broader challenge facing our news media: the tendency to perpetuate narratives that serve specific political agendas while ignoring new evidence that contradicts those narratives. This situation not only discredits the media but also undermines public trust in democratic institutions, an essential pillar of a functioning society.
Historically, the relationship between U.S. politics and foreign interference has been fraught with tension. The Cold War era is rife with examples of government manipulation and disinformation, often leading to military intervention and destabilization in numerous countries. The intelligence community's assessment of Russian interference in the 2016 election, while legitimate, has often been criticized for its overreach and politicization. This context is vital for understanding the current media landscape, where narratives can be weaponized to advance political priorities rather than to inform the public. The framing of ongoing events can often reflect a continuation of these long-standing tensions, with media serving as a conduit for partisan narratives rather than an independent arbiter of truth.
In light of such dynamics, it becomes imperative for Americans to take a proactive stance regarding media consumption. This requires critical engagement with news sources, understanding their biases, and seeking out diverse perspectives. By fostering media literacy, individuals can better discern factual information from politicized narratives. Educational initiatives focusing on media literacy can empower citizens to question the motivations behind news coverage and to hold media organizations accountable for their reporting standards. Engaging in community discussions and workshops can also facilitate a more informed electorate that is capable of navigating the complexities of modern media.
Moreover, the article's reference to the declassified documents released by Tulsi Gabbard points to a significant opportunity for dialogue regarding transparency and accountability within the intelligence community. As citizens, we should advocate for more stringent oversight of intelligence agencies to ensure that their assessments are not influenced by political considerations. Supporting legislation that prioritizes transparency can encourage a culture where intelligence is used to serve the public interest rather than political agendas. Engaging with local representatives to discuss the importance of holding these institutions accountable is a critical step toward ensuring that the public remains well-informed.
To further confront these challenges, Americans should also consider utilizing social media platforms and other digital channels to amplify alternative narratives that challenge mainstream media's portrayal of events. The power of grassroots movements and independent journalism has shown potential in disrupting dominant narratives. By supporting independent media outlets and engaging with platforms that prioritize fact-checking and rigorous reporting, individuals can help create a more balanced media ecosystem. Collectively, these actions can lead to a more informed populace, one that demands accountability from both the media and government institutions.
In conclusion, the ongoing discussion surrounding the "Russian collusion" narrative serves as a reminder of the vital role that media plays in shaping public perception and political discourse. Historical context and the need for critical engagement with information are paramount in navigating today's complex political landscape. By advocating for transparency, fostering media literacy, and supporting independent journalism, Americans can work toward a more informed citizenry that is less susceptible to manipulation and more empowered to hold institutions accountable. In doing so, we can strengthen the foundations of our democracy and ensure that it serves the interests of all citizens.
In light of the information presented in the article, there are several actions we can take to engage with the issues of media accountability, transparency in intelligence assessments, and political integrity. Here’s a detailed list of ideas and actions you can take in the real world:
### Personal Actions & Advocacy Steps
1. **Educate Yourself and Others** - Stay informed about the narratives surrounding election interference and media reporting. Share articles and resources that provide diverse perspectives on the topic, including those that critically analyze the integrity of intelligence assessments. - Host or attend community discussions, webinars, or book clubs focused on media literacy, political integrity, and the impact of disinformation.
2. **Engage with Media Organizations** - Write to media organizations to demand accountability in their reporting. Express your concerns about how they cover significant political issues, particularly regarding intelligence assessments and election integrity. - **Who to Contact:** - NBC News: - Email: viewerfeedback@nbcuni.com - Address: NBC Universal, 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112 - Sample Message: "I am writing to express my concerns regarding the coverage of intelligence assessments related to election interference. It is vital that news organizations provide comprehensive and accurate reporting that acknowledges new evidence and fosters public trust."
3. **Sign and Share Petitions** - Look for petitions aimed at promoting media transparency and accountability. Websites like Change.org or MoveOn.org are great places to find relevant petitions. - Example petition: "Demand Transparency in Media Reporting on Election Interference" - Share these petitions on social media and encourage friends and family to sign them.
4. **Contact Your Elected Officials** - Write to your local representatives to advocate for reforms in how intelligence assessments are conducted and reported. Urge them to prioritize transparency and accountability in government and media. - **Who to Write To:** - Your U.S. Representative (Find your representative: [House.gov](https://www.house.gov)) - Sample Message: "Dear [Representative's Name], I urge you to support measures that promote transparency in intelligence assessments and the media's role in reporting. It is crucial for the public to have access to accurate information that influences our democratic processes."
5. **Participate in Local Activism** - Join or support local advocacy groups that focus on media accountability, election integrity, and governmental transparency. These groups often have campaigns and events that you can participate in. - Examples of organizations include: - Common Cause (focuses on campaign finance and election integrity) - Media Matters for America (works to address misinformation in the media)
6. **Utilize Social Media for Awareness** - Use social media platforms to raise awareness about issues related to media coverage of political events and intelligence assessments. Share informative content, engage in discussions, and encourage others to consider the importance of accurate reporting. - Use hashtags such as #MediaAccountability and #ElectionIntegrity to join broader conversations.
7. **Attend Town Halls and Public Meetings** - Participate in town halls or public meetings where you can voice your concerns about media coverage, election integrity, and the importance of transparency in intelligence assessments. This is a chance to engage directly with decision-makers and hold them accountable.
8. **Support Independent Media** - Subscribe to or donate to independent news outlets that prioritize investigative journalism and accountability. Supporting these organizations helps diversify the media landscape and may lead to more comprehensive reporting on critical issues.
By taking these actions, you can contribute to the ongoing conversation about media responsibility, political integrity, and the importance of transparency in our democratic processes. Each step, no matter how small, can lead to larger changes in how information is conveyed and understood in society.